Top 6 Lakes around Ballywillin
Lakes around Ballywillin offer access to the significant waters of Strangford Lough, a large sea lough in Northern Ireland. This region provides a landscape characterized by its coastal features, historical sites, and opportunities for waterside activities. The area is known for its marine environment rather than traditional freshwater lakes. Visitors can explore various points along the lough, which is recognized for its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Best lakes around Ballywillin
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
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Forest Path Along Strangford Lough
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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
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Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
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Ringhaddy Sound
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Tips from the Community
Ballydorn, or 'The Dorn' as it is locally known, is a beautiful and popular mooring ground with a short-stay pontoon attached to a permanently moored lightship called The LV Petrel that is now the Down Cruising Club headquarters. The LV Petrel was commissioned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1913, and built by the Dublin Drydocks Company. This Lightship spent most of its previous working life at Blackwater Bank on the River Blackwater, Wexford. It was then sold in 1968 to Hammond Lane foundries in Dublin, before being saved to use as the cruise club HQ. The boat is registered as a national historic ship in the UK.
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Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.
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It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island, now in a state of ruin. To the south of Whiterock is Ballymorran Bay.
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Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
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If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.
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In the Caravan / Car park just on the shoreline you will find Toilets, and if you fancy a bit of refreshment there is a Pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, just to your left.
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Nice forest with great views of Strangford Lough. Easy signposted walks.
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The path leads you through a wall of gnarled, ancient trees - and the sea water flashes again and again between the trunks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect to find around Ballywillin?
The area around Ballywillin is primarily known for its access to Strangford Lough, which is a large sea lough in Northern Ireland, rather than traditional freshwater lakes. You'll find coastal features, marine environments, and points of interest along the lough's shores.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions near the lough?
Yes, the region offers several historical sites. For example, Whiterock Harbour is home to the ruins of Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. Additionally, Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel features a permanently moored lightship, the LV Petrel, which is a registered national historic ship and serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters. You can also find a castle ruin and church near Ringhaddy Sound, though they are on private land.
What are some popular viewpoints to experience Strangford Lough?
Visitors often enjoy the scenic vistas from Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views, a winding lane that offers stunning perspectives of the lough's bays as it climbs towards Killinchy. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough also provides great views of the lough through ancient trees.
Are there family-friendly spots along Strangford Lough?
Yes, several locations are suitable for families. Whiterock Harbour is a settlement with amenities like public toilets and a cafe/restaurant. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough offers easy, signposted walks. Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel is another family-friendly historical site.
What outdoor activities can I do near Strangford Lough?
The area around Ballywillin offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hiking trails like the 'Delamont Long Walk' or 'Lecale Way'. For cycling, there are routes such as the 'Tullynakill Church Ruins loop'. Running enthusiasts can explore trails like the 'Delamont Country Park running loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the guides for easy hikes, cycling, and running trails around Ballywillin.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for beginners or casual strolls?
Yes, the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough offers easy, signposted walks through gnarled, ancient trees with intermittent views of the lough. Additionally, the 'Delamont Long Walk' and 'Lecale Way' are considered easy hikes available in the area. You can explore more options in the easy hikes guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lough access points around Ballywillin?
Visitors appreciate the beautiful scenic spots, especially at Whiterock Harbour, which has yacht clubs and a cafe. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough is loved for its great views and the atmosphere of walking through ancient trees. The historical significance of sites like the LV Petrel at Ballydorn Bay also draws interest.
Can I find places to eat or get refreshments near the lough?
Yes, Whiterock Harbour has a cafe/restaurant/bar. There's also a pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, near Whiterock. If you're near Ringhaddy Sound, there's a Boat Club with full facilities just a short distance up the road.
Are there any unique natural features or monuments to see?
Beyond the expansive views of Strangford Lough itself, Ringhaddy Sound is notable for its unusual swollen hills and the atmosphere it creates. The lough's marine environment is a significant natural feature, recognized for its biodiversity and coastal characteristics.
Is Ballywillin located near any significant freshwater lakes?
Based on available information, there are no notable or significant freshwater lakes directly within any of the specific Ballywillin locations across Ireland. The region's primary water feature is Strangford Lough, which is a sea lough.
What is the best time of year to visit the Strangford Lough area?
While specific seasonal tips aren't provided, the area's appeal lies in its coastal features and outdoor activities. Spring and summer generally offer milder weather for exploring the lough's shores, walking trails, and enjoying waterside activities. Autumn can provide beautiful scenery with changing foliage, while winter might be quieter but still offers opportunities for walks, especially if prepared for cooler, potentially wetter conditions.
Most popular routes around Ballywillin
Most popular attractions around Ballywillin
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